Eat and Drink LLC announced the opening of its newest hospitality concept, GuacStar Kitchen and Cantina, on Thursday, November 5. The 4,650 square-foot restaurant is located at 920 E. University Dr. on the northeast corner of University Drive and Rural Road in the Cornerstone Mall next to the Tempe Improv Comedy Club.

Restaurateurs James Carlin, Tom Cerino and Randy Feldman, along with partners Suzanne Davis and Julie LaRussa, want to redefine the plant-based category by creating a dining experience typically associated with that of hip, mainstream restaurants found in cities like New York or Los Angeles. The group’s goal is simple – to show the masses that you don’t have to sacrifice taste or your wallet to eat plant-based foods. Their mission is to make healthy food sexy, and to create an exciting, unpretentious plant-based dining destination where the overall experience counts just as much as the food.

GuacStar will feature mouth-watering plant-based versions of Mexican comfort food classics, inspired by Chef Rene Andrade and prepared by Chef Clinton Lomayma. They will also introduce a craft cocktail program featuring artisan margaritas and a present-day riff on cocktails made popular in the ‘80s and ‘90s. The contemporary environment showcases a fusion of customized raw materials and stylish décor including original paintings by local artist Iris Ortega.

Not only is GuacStar a destination for revolutionary food, but it’s also the perfect place to grab a late-night cocktail, people watch and socialize with family and friends. The irreverent atmosphere and upbeat vibe will thrill guests seven days a week and give the Valley a unique taste of culinary excitement with an emphasis on just how much fun plant-based dining can be.